LeBron James recorded the 30,000th point of his career as San Antonio Spurs fans applauded the Cleveland Cavaliers superstar, giving him a standing ovation. James needed just seven points to reach the milestone heading into their game at the AT&T Center.
The King could not have played in a better road arena as Spurs fans are as classy as the franchise that they cheer for. Every basket that James made during the game had fans applauding him with everyone in anticipation of the momentous achievement.
The moment happened towards the end of the first quarter with James needing only a single point to reach the mark. With Danny Green guarding him, LeBron pulled up for a 19-foot jumper from the left side of the court with 1.1 seconds remaining in the quarter, giving him 30,001 points.
While the fans cheered, Cavs players congratulated LeBron James. Dwyane Wade, James’ closest friend on the team, the first one to approach him.
James is the youngest player to reach 30,000 points at 33 years, 24 days, and three weeks. L.A. Lakers legend Kobe Bryant previously held claim to the youngest-to-30,000 title who made it to the exclusive club at the age of 34 years and 104 days.
Others who accomplished the feat are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone, Bryant, Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, and Dirk Nowitzki.
Coming at a difficult time when the Cavaliers need something to feel good about, James’ accomplishment is a breath of fresh air.
Despite James’ historic feat, it seemingly did not inject enough inspiration to his team, as Th=te Cavs ended the game with a 114-102 loss, their sixth defeat in seven games. They will look to arrest their skid this Friday at home against the Indiana Pacers.